Light The World Giving Machines return to Charlotte
For the second year in a row, Charlotte will be home to the world-famous Light The World Giving Machines this holiday season.
Beginning December 14 at the Promenade on Providence shopping complex in South Charlotte, these bright red, giving-focused vending machines will offer the public a unique and memorable way to extend love to others.
Giving Machines are customized vending machines filled with goods and services to assist the most vulnerable among us. “Instead of buying snack food, people can select from a variety of much-needed items for local and global charities,” said Elder Nathan R. Emery, a regional faith leader for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in North Carolina. “From a goat for a needy family in Africa to a blanket for an infant right here in Charlotte, there are dozens of items to choose from.”
This year, the Charlotte Giving Machines will support three local nonprofits:
- Baby Bundles blesses new mothers in need by giving them a bag full of necessities – baby outfits, blankets, burp cloths, bibs, developmental toys and the like – as they leave the hospital with their newborn.
- Beds for Kids provides beds and essential furniture to children and their families in need through a network of over 40 referral agencies across the Charlotte region.
- The Relatives is Mecklenburg County’s sole emergency shelter serving youth and adolescents. Additionally, it operates On Ramp, a drop-in resource center for young adults seeking help making the successful evolution from youth to independent adult.
Some items featured in this year’s Giving Machine include a baby toy, pajamas, chickens, bedding set, hot meals, and work attire, with prices ranging from $5 to $240.
The first Giving Machine appeared in 2017 in just one city. Last year, machines were in 28 cities across six countries, with an estimated 425,000 individuals donating more than $6 million. This year, Giving Machines will be in more than 50 cities worldwide. Total donations have exceeded $22 million, with 100% used to fulfill each donor’s selection — all possible because the initiative’s sponsor, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, covers all operational costs.
Visit the Charlotte Light The World Giving Machines from Thursday, December 14, 2023 through Monday, January 1, 2024, at the Promenade on Providence, 10844 Providence Rd., Charlotte, NC 28277. The machines will be near The Green. Enjoy the family-friendly events and atmosphere as you share a little of yourself with someone in need this holiday season.
For more information, please visit the Charlotte Giving Machine Facebook page.
